Being a high school librarian means much more than simply managing the school's library. It also means being a source of support and a safe space for students, especially when it comes to mental health. Librarians like myself are often in a unique position to get to know and observe all students in the building and pick up on signs of mental distress. As such, we can play an important role in identifying students who may be struggling and connecting them with appropriate resources.
High school librarians can also make a difference by providing students with books and other resources related to mental health, as well as by creating a welcoming and inclusive environment where students feel comfortable discussing their concerns. By taking steps to support students' mental health, high school librarians can help promote a positive and healthy school environment for everyone.
One way to support mental health is by seeking out additional resources. There are many online resources and apps available that can provide information, support, and tools for managing mental health. For example, the Headspace app offers mindfulness and meditation exercises that can help reduce stress and improve mood. Sanvello provides cognitive-behavioral therapy exercises and mood tracking tools to help manage stress, anxiety, and depression.
In addition to apps, there are also websites and organizations that provide mental health resources. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers education, support, and advocacy for people with mental illness and their families. The website TeenMentalHealth.org is dedicated to promoting youth mental health and offers articles and resources about various mental health conditions, as well as tips for coping with stress and promoting positive mental health.
Mental health is an important topic that is often overlooked, especially among teenagers. With the many challenges that come with adolescence, such as academic pressures, social dynamics, and personal issues, it's not uncommon for teens to experience mental health struggles. That's why Mental Health Awareness Month, which takes place in May, is an important time for teens to learn about mental health and take steps to support their own well-being.
For those experiencing a mental health crisis, Crisis Text Line provides a free 24/7 texting service with trained crisis counselors. The Trevor Project is a nonprofit organization that provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services specifically for LGBTQ+ youth.
It's important to remember that seeking help for mental health is a sign of strength, not weakness. Talking to someone you trust, whether it's a friend, family member, or mental health professional, can be a helpful step towards managing mental health. Additionally, incorporating self-care practices such as exercise, healthy eating, and getting enough sleep can also support mental well-being.
Mental health awareness is important for everyone, but especially for teenagers who face unique challenges and stressors. By utilizing the many resources available, including online apps, websites, and organizations, teens can take steps to support their mental health and well-being. Remember, it's okay to not be okay, and there is always help available.
High school librarians have a unique perspective on the school and its students, and can be a great resource for those who may be struggling. By providing access to mental health resources and creating a welcoming environment, librarians can help students feel comfortable discussing their concerns and seeking help when they need it. This Mental Health Awareness Month, let's take the time to appreciate the efforts of our school librarians and other professionals who work tirelessly to support our mental health and well-being.
And let's not forget about the mental health of the librarians themselves. Librarians are not only dealing with the challenges of reinventing and maintaining a safe and functional library, but they are also supporting students who are facing their own mental health challenges. On top of this, librarians may face additional stress from book challenges and bans, as well as navigating difficult conversations around sensitive topics with students and parents. It's important for us to recognize the mental health of our school librarians and the tremendous effort they put in to support their students and broader community. By working together, we can create a positive and supportive environment for everyone, including our librarians.
Additional Resources
Here are some books about mental health that may be of interest to teens:
It's Kind of a Funny Story by Ned Vizzini
It's Kind of a Funny Story is a poignant and uplifting novel that tackles the often-misunderstood topic of mental illness with empathy and humor. The story follows 16-year-old Craig, who checks himself into a mental health clinic after struggling with depression and suicidal thoughts. Through his experiences at the clinic, Craig learns valuable lessons about self-care, friendship, and the power of human connection.
Vizzini's writing is witty, engaging, and full of heart, making this a book that readers of all ages can enjoy. Overall, "It's Kind of a Funny Story" is a must-read for anyone looking to gain a better understanding of mental illness, and a reminder that hope and healing are always possible.
It is tragic and heartbreaking that Vizzini, a talented writer who brought awareness to mental health issues through his writing, sadly passed away by suicide in 2013.
The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a coming-of-age novel by Stephen Chbosky that follows the story of Charlie, a high school freshman who is struggling to navigate the complexities of adolescence. The story is told through a series of letters that Charlie writes to an anonymous recipient, chronicling his experiences with love, friendship, family, and mental health.
As he becomes friends with two seniors, Sam and Patrick, Charlie is introduced to new experiences and is forced to confront difficult truths about his past and the world around him. Through his journey, Charlie learns to accept himself, appreciate the people in his life, and embrace the challenges and joys of growing up.
Turtles All the Way Down by John Green
Turtles All the Way Down is a deeply personal and moving novel that explores the complex and often misunderstood world of anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder. The story follows Aza, a teenage girl who struggles with intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors as she tries to solve the mystery of a missing billionaire with the help of her friend, Davis.
Green's writing is raw and honest, capturing the intricate details of Aza's inner world with sensitivity and empathy. The novel's portrayal of mental illness is nuanced and authentic, showing both the struggles and the strengths of those who live with it.
This is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the impact of mental illness on individuals and their relationships, and a reminder that despite its challenges, life can be beautiful and full of hope.
All the Bright Places by Jennifer Niven All the Bright Places is a heart-wrenching and beautiful novel that explores the difficult topic of mental illness and suicide. The story follows Violet and Finch, two teenagers who form an unlikely friendship as they navigate the challenges of their mental health struggles.
Through their shared experiences, Violet and Finch discover the power of human connection and the importance of finding hope and light in the darkest of places. Niven's writing is beautiful and poignant, capturing the complex emotions and struggles of her characters with sensitivity and empathy.
All the Bright Places is a must-read for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of the impact of mental illness on individuals and their loved ones, and a reminder of the importance of seeking help and finding hope in times of darkness.
Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson
Laurie Halse Anderson's Speak is a powerful and emotionally resonant novel that tackles the difficult topic of sexual assault and its aftermath. The story follows Melinda, a high school freshman who becomes a social outcast after calling the police at a party to report her assault.
Anderson's writing is raw and unflinching, capturing the complex emotions and trauma that Melinda experiences as she struggles to come to terms with what has happened to her. Despite the heavy subject matter, this is ultimately a story of hope and resilience, as Melinda finds the strength to speak up and confront her abuser.
This novel is a must-read for anyone looking to gain a better understanding of the impact of sexual assault, and a reminder of the importance of speaking out against injustice.
Challenger Deep by Neal Shusterman
Challenger Deep is a young adult novel by Neal Shusterman that explores the reality of mental illness through the eyes of a teenage boy named Caden Bosch. The story follows Caden as he navigates the confusing and often terrifying world of psychosis, where his perception of reality becomes distorted and he struggles to distinguish between what is real and what is not. As Caden is admitted to a psychiatric hospital, he meets a cast of characters who challenge his beliefs and help him confront his inner demons.
Through his journey, Caden comes to terms with his illness and learns to find hope and meaning in his life. The novel is a powerful and poignant portrayal of mental illness and the challenges of navigating the healthcare system.
Furiously Happy: A Funny Book About Horrible Things by Jenny Lawson
Furiously Happy is a delightful memoir about living with mental illness. With a blend of humor and raw honesty, Lawson takes the reader on a journey through her struggles with depression, anxiety, and other disorders. She recounts her experiences with vivid detail, describing the highs and lows of her life with a refreshing candor that is both endearing and relatable.
Lawson's writing style is irreverent and witty, making the heavy subject matter accessible and entertaining. She uses humor to illustrate the absurdity of living with mental illness, and her stories are both poignant and hilarious. Overall, Furiously Happy is a must-read for anyone looking for an honest and uplifting portrayal of mental illness, and for anyone who wants to laugh while learning about the struggles that many people face every day.
Girl in Pieces by Kathleen Glasgow
Girl in Pieces by Kathleen Glasgow is a raw and powerful novel that explores the difficult topic of self-harm and mental illness. The story follows Charlie, a teenage girl who has been through a traumatic past and struggles with depression, anxiety, and addiction.
Through her journey to recovery, Charlie meets a cast of diverse and supportive characters who help her navigate the challenges of her mental health struggles. Glasgow's writing is evocative and lyrical, capturing the pain, struggle, and resilience of Charlie's journey with authenticity and sensitivity.
This novel is an important exploration of the realities of mental illness and the journey to healing, making it a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the impact of mental health on individuals and their loved ones.
A Quiet Kind of Thunder by Sara Barnard
A Quiet Kind of Thunder by Sara Barnard is a heartwarming young adult novel that explores themes of love, communication, and mental health. The story follows the relationship between Steffi, a selective mute, and Rhys, a deaf student who uses sign language to communicate. As they become friends and then more, they learn to navigate their unique challenges and support each other through their struggles.
The novel is a beautiful portrayal of two individuals who are often misunderstood by others, and their journey to find acceptance and understanding with each other. Barnard's writing style is gentle and immersive, creating a world that is both familiar and unique. The novel is a wonderful representation of neurodiversity, and it encourages readers to embrace their differences and find connection with others.
Finding Audrey by Sophie Kinsella
Finding Audrey is a heartwarming young adult novel that explores the impact of anxiety on a teenage girl's life. The story follows Audrey, a 14-year-old girl who struggles with anxiety and panic attacks after a traumatic incident at school. Audrey's family is supportive, but they struggle to understand her condition and how to help her. When Audrey meets her brother's friend, Linus, she slowly begins to open up and confront her fears.
The novel is a beautiful portrayal of the challenges of living with mental illness, and the importance of family, friendship, and love in overcoming these challenges. Kinsella's writing style is engaging and witty, making the heavy subject matter accessible and entertaining. She uses humor to break the tension and to show the resilience of the human spirit. Overall, Finding Audrey is sure to resonate with readers who have experienced anxiety or other mental health conditions.
Here are some online resources and apps about mental health that may be helpful for teens:
- Calm Harm - An app designed to help people manage urges to self-harm. It includes tools for distraction, relaxation, and coping strategies.
- Crisis Text Line - A free 24/7 texting service for people in crisis. Text "HOME" to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.
- Headspace - A mindfulness and meditation app that can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
- It Gets Better Project - A global organization that provides support and resources for LGBTQ+ youth, including a website with inspiring stories, videos, and educational resources.
- Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line - A confidential and toll-free resource that provides free and anonymous support, information, and referrals for mental health and substance use concerns.
- Mental Health Literacy - A website dedicated to promoting youth mental health, with articles and resources about various mental health conditions, as well as tips for coping with stress and promoting positive mental health.
- NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) - A nonprofit organization that provides education, support, and advocacy for people with mental illness and their families. Their website offers resources and information about mental health conditions.
- ReachOut.com - A website and app that provides mental health support and resources for teens and young adults. It includes stories from other young people who have struggled with mental health issues.
- Sanvello - An app that provides tools for managing stress, anxiety, and depression, including mood tracking and cognitive-behavioral therapy exercises.
- The Trevor Project - A nonprofit organization that provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services for LGBTQ+ youth. Their website includes resources and information about mental health and suicide prevention.
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